Global Orphan Outreach is actively working to address the ever-growing problem of caustic soda ingestion in children. Young children are mistaking the odorless and colorless lye solution as water. When drank; the chemical burns their mouth and esophagus; leaving them terribly scarred and unable to eat or drink. Many of these children die of starvation and dehydration.
Global Orphan Outreach is partnering with doctors both here in the U.S. and in Liberia along with the Ministry of Health of Liberia to bring Poison Control Education to the Liberian people, hospitals, and clinics.
"Caustic esophageal injuries occur all over Liberia but most cases are currently referred to the capitol Monrovia at the National Referral Center (John F. Kennedy Medical Center). This condition results from the accidental ingestion of a solution of lye made at home for soap production. Many persons use this soap production as a means of economic empowerment to help them get by. Some Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) are training Liberians in this method of soap production but may not be emphasizing safety as part of the training program." Says Dr. Sherman; lead medical doctor in Liberia who is treating many of these cases. He went on to further state that he believes education will be the number one way to help combat this serious childhood issue.
In wake of the growing wave of this medical problem in the country, coupled with the desire to help create the necessary public awareness on the danger of this material, and at the same time not discouraging users to abandon their only source of livelihood for now, Global Orphan Outreach (partnering with Global Front Foundation) has implemented a massive Public Awareness Campaign. This campaign involved print and electronic media, posters, billboards, stickers, and workshops. We encourage you to join us as we help treat and prevent this childhood tragedy. For further questions about this project; please feel free to contact us.
